Camping in Carson City, NV, US: 12 Best Campgrounds 2025

United States
—
Nevada
—
Carson City

91% (493 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Carson City

Under $50

Top camping destinations

Tahoe National Forest

698 campgrounds

Welcome to Sierra Circles Sculpture Garden

Gabbs

1 campground

Glacier point, definitely recommended! Get here EARLY in the morning for a damn good sunrise, and before the tour busses show up (or snag a wilderness permit and stay overnight!)

Yosemite National Park

676 campgrounds

Columns of the Giants

677 campgrounds

Stanislaus National Forest

788 campgrounds

Sierra National Forest

563 campgrounds

Available this weekend

76%

(42)

Big Yeti Tiny Village

8 sites · RVs, Tents1 acre · Washington, CA

As you know Hipcamp lets you book and enjoy your travel plans seamlessly, So....We make every effort to be open year round, even in a blizzard. Please make sure you are equipped completely for your perfect stay over. This is a Mountain Location please check local weather conditions before you arrive. This is located 25 minutes from Truckee. Emigrant Gap has some hidden GEMS. The State park at the end of the road hosts the North Fork of the North Fork of the American River and its water Fall. Bowman Lake and Yuba Gap reservoir are one exit away. This small camping area backs up to 100,000 acres of Tahoe National forest. You can walk to a restaurant with regular bathrooms and wifi. Here we have out door compost toilet and cold out door shower. ATM we are nothing special. Lots of cool things to do minutes from here, but we mainly boast a safe place to park on your journey. Historic and epic rock climbing is minutes from your campsite. Also there are 4 ski destinations less then 20 minutes from us. fishing lakes can be hiked to. Quads, snow mobiles, xcountry skiing, hiking, downhill and horse back riding can all happen without getting back on the freeway. September 1, 2023. In and effort to make stayovers more comfortable, Site 4 and 5 are being removed and site 6 is being modified to host a full time 34Ft RV available for nightly use.

86%

(64)

Village Camp Truckee

134 sites · Lodging, RVs50 acres · Truckee, CA

Village Camp Truckee is nestled in the breathtaking Sierra Nevada mountains of Northern California, offering easy access to the best outdoor activities, shopping, and dining Truckee, CA, has to offer. Situated at nearly 6,000 ft., Village Camp Truckee is open year-round, making it the perfect basecamp for winter sports enthusiasts headed to Northstar or Palisades Tahoe, and for those looking to enjoy mild summer days fishing or exploring the Truckee River. Just a short drive from the stunning beauty of Lake Tahoe, Village Camp Truckee also features modern cabins and RV sites surrounded by majestic redwoods, thoughtfully designed with your comfort in mind.

L.Davis Ranch and Olde LYFE Alpacas

4 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents130 acres · Carson City, NV

Too cold to camp??? NOT HERE!! We have propane heater avail to rent!! OR spend the night in our new Glamping Tent where you'll be toasty warm!! We sit on 130 acres of primarily pasture over looking Washoe Valley and Washoe Lake. Olde LYFE Alpacas offers visits with the animals, including an organized 60 min Peaceful Walk with an alpaca where you’ll experience them up close. To book an experience, go to www.oldelyfealpacas.com. There is a small retail store on site with a variety of products made with alpaca fiber, including the most delightful alpaca socks!! The ranch store is self serve mostly. There are price sheets and payment methods listed!

sierra Tahoe moutain bike adventure

2 sites · RVs, Tents1 acre · Reno, NV

Welcome to sierra tahoe moutain bike adventure, your perfect mountain escape nestled right next to 11000 Mt. Rose Hwy! Our scenic campsite offers an unparalleled experience for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike. With complimentary bike rentals for 1 hour - 1 day and a discounted rates there after. Shower,restroom,and bike repairs during business hours Experience the Best of Mountain Living **Breathtaking Scenery:** Wake up to panoramic views of the majestic Sierra Nevada mountains and breathe in the crisp, fresh alpine air. Our campsite provides a serene backdrop with stunning vistas that change with every season, offering a unique and beautiful experience year-round. **Outdoor Activities Galore:** Situated just a short drive from Lake Tahoe, you can spend your days swimming, kayaking, or simply lounging by the crystal-clear waters. For those who crave a bit more excitement, Mt. Rose is right at your doorstep, offering excellent opportunities for hiking, climbing, and exploring the rugged terrain. **Mountain Biking Trails:** Take advantage of our complimentary short-term bike rentals and explore the exhilarating mountain biking trails nearby. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned pro, you'll find trails that cater to all skill levels, ensuring a thrilling ride through the wilderness. **Modern Amenities:** Stay connected with complimentary Wi-Fi available for all campers. After a day of adventure, share your photos and experiences with friends and family or simply unwind with your favorite streaming service. **Nearby Attractions:** - **Mt. Rose Summit Trail:** A challenging but rewarding hike to the summit for breathtaking views. - **Tahoe Rim Trail:** Perfect for both hiking and biking, offering miles of scenic trails. -** Sky tavern bike park right next door with so amazing repeatable trails - **Diamond Peak Ski Resort:** Just a short drive away for winter sports enthusiasts. Join us in tahoe for an unforgettable camping experience filled with adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty. Book your spot today and start planning your mountain getaway!

Water front on Topaz Lake

7 sites · RVs, Tents4 acres · Topaz, CA

Learn more about this land:Beautiful lake front property on Topaz Lake , we have 6 rv sites to choose from on 4 acres .First come first serve . Bring your Rv or pitch a tent . Bring your whole family. We have kayaks and paddle boards . Fishing boat available to rent . Life jackets available and a peddle boat too ! Lots of float toys !!

12 top campgrounds near Carson City

97%

(117)

L.Davis Ranch and Olde LYFE Alpacas

4 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents130 acres · Carson City, NV

Too cold to camp??? NOT HERE!! We have propane heater avail to rent!! OR spend the night in our new Glamping Tent where you'll be toasty warm!! We sit on 130 acres of primarily pasture over looking Washoe Valley and Washoe Lake. Olde LYFE Alpacas offers visits with the animals, including an organized 60 min Peaceful Walk with an alpaca where you’ll experience them up close. To book an experience, go to www.oldelyfealpacas.com. There is a small retail store on site with a variety of products made with alpaca fiber, including the most delightful alpaca socks!! The ranch store is self serve mostly. There are price sheets and payment methods listed!

Village Camp Truckee

134 sites · Lodging, RVs50 acres · Truckee, CA

Village Camp Truckee is nestled in the breathtaking Sierra Nevada mountains of Northern California, offering easy access to the best outdoor activities, shopping, and dining Truckee, CA, has to offer. Situated at nearly 6,000 ft., Village Camp Truckee is open year-round, making it the perfect basecamp for winter sports enthusiasts headed to Northstar or Palisades Tahoe, and for those looking to enjoy mild summer days fishing or exploring the Truckee River. Just a short drive from the stunning beauty of Lake Tahoe, Village Camp Truckee also features modern cabins and RV sites surrounded by majestic redwoods, thoughtfully designed with your comfort in mind.

Booked 1 time

Beautiful Rustic Cabin In Nature

1 site · Lodging2 acres · Pollock Pines, CA

Beautiful Rustic Cabin that is surrounded by Nature and Tall Majestic Trees. This Cabin home has all the privacy you need. Lots of space to park your RV or set up a Tent. Easy access to the freeway so you can be on your way to the famous Apple Hill (15 minute drive), South Lake Tahoe (1 hour drive), Sly Park (less than 10 minute drive), or El Dorado National Forest. I recommend grabbing some delicious food in Downtown Placerville. This is the place you want to be at when looking for Rest and Relaxation!

Water front on Topaz Lake

7 sites · RVs, Tents4 acres · Topaz, CA

Learn more about this land:Beautiful lake front property on Topaz Lake , we have 6 rv sites to choose from on 4 acres .First come first serve . Bring your Rv or pitch a tent . Bring your whole family. We have kayaks and paddle boards . Fishing boat available to rent . Life jackets available and a peddle boat too ! Lots of float toys !!

Big Yeti Tiny Village

8 sites · RVs, Tents1 acre · Washington, CA

As you know Hipcamp lets you book and enjoy your travel plans seamlessly, So....We make every effort to be open year round, even in a blizzard. Please make sure you are equipped completely for your perfect stay over. This is a Mountain Location please check local weather conditions before you arrive. This is located 25 minutes from Truckee. Emigrant Gap has some hidden GEMS. The State park at the end of the road hosts the North Fork of the North Fork of the American River and its water Fall. Bowman Lake and Yuba Gap reservoir are one exit away. This small camping area backs up to 100,000 acres of Tahoe National forest. You can walk to a restaurant with regular bathrooms and wifi. Here we have out door compost toilet and cold out door shower. ATM we are nothing special. Lots of cool things to do minutes from here, but we mainly boast a safe place to park on your journey. Historic and epic rock climbing is minutes from your campsite. Also there are 4 ski destinations less then 20 minutes from us. fishing lakes can be hiked to. Quads, snow mobiles, xcountry skiing, hiking, downhill and horse back riding can all happen without getting back on the freeway. September 1, 2023. In and effort to make stayovers more comfortable, Site 4 and 5 are being removed and site 6 is being modified to host a full time 34Ft RV available for nightly use.

Flyte and Sparrow natural interlude

13 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents96 acres · Reno, CA

When you come to camp here you are on a working farm in transition. Girlfarm has been a local food go to for restaurants, farm family members, and regenerative agriculture interests. Today, the farm is looking forward to a new course in agri tourism as we begin planning walking gardens, art installations in the landscape, and interactive classes. If you would like a list of grass fed meats available, veggies, or herbs just text your host before arrival. We are looking for a seasonal self contained camper who we could offer trade for camp care - text host directly. Its been a huge water season so skeeters are around we also recommend tents have a rain fly and ground cloth. Welcome It was important to choose a partner like Hipcamp to invite like minded individuals who respect both the natural environment and the idea of less is more. At any time you may encounter farming activities, building out of tiny houses for future bookings, or gardens in the process of creation. As we move toward offering the land as a place to both find solitude or chosen participation our Flyte and Sparrow experience will hopefully be a place you will want to return to as your own tradition.

97%

(16)

Pequena Huts

3 sites · Lodging1 acre · Soda Springs, CA

Cute little cabin nestled in Tahoe National forest . This little gem is on an acre of land surrounded by national forest land. Close enough to Lake Tahoe to get to but also away from the Tahoe chaos. Host lives on property , but will most likely be out and about most of the day. There are two neighbors but both own 20 acres so you can not see them, feels very private. The front of the property where the cabin is located there will be some highway noise being close to highway 20 , especially during a busy weekend. you can’t hear highway noise while in the cabin and towards the back of the land. However it is nice to be so close to highway 20 because it leads to several different destinations. ( west : Nevada city. east: towards Tahoe, and both directions there are soo many lakes/ rivers ) Tiny house: •Full sized futon downstairs and king sized mattress in loft. Electric fireplace, all the game boards , cards, chess, fire pit, projector for movies if requested!!! •Additional guests are welcome to pitch a tent on the land if needed. •Hot plate, toaster oven, mini fridge, kitchen appliances, coffee (French press, drip, mocha pot). Black stone grill outside. Fire pit , check if fires are allowed during booking •Separate bathroom with compost toilet or a short walk to outhouse. Outdoor shower in the making, message if available. FUN: •Lake Spaulding is about 1/4 mile hike down from the property. There is a boat launch and plenty of room to park it on the property if you want to bring a boat. Also have two paddle boards you are welcome to use. Rivers/lakes/swimming holes: •emerald pools, crystal clear water , cliff jumping , waterfalls . 10 minute drive •south yuba river 5-15 minutes depending on the spot (ask for recommendations ) •bowman lake road connects to several lakes . 10 minute drive •lake valley reservoir , 10 minute drive •donner lake, rent kayaks, paddle boards or a boat. 20 minutes • eagle lakes rd swimming hole about 5 minutes •truckee, the cutest town with fun shops, restaurants and bars, 25 minutes . Truckee Thursdays start 6/22, live music &vendors!!! Food: •rustic table, 10 minutes •subway . 10 minutes •Burger King, 10 minutes •soda springs market , 15 minutes •truckee , 25 minutes •Nevada city, 35 minutes @lil_pequena_huts

sierra Tahoe moutain bike adventure

2 sites · RVs, Tents1 acre · Reno, NV

Welcome to sierra tahoe moutain bike adventure, your perfect mountain escape nestled right next to 11000 Mt. Rose Hwy! Our scenic campsite offers an unparalleled experience for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike. With complimentary bike rentals for 1 hour - 1 day and a discounted rates there after. Shower,restroom,and bike repairs during business hours Experience the Best of Mountain Living **Breathtaking Scenery:** Wake up to panoramic views of the majestic Sierra Nevada mountains and breathe in the crisp, fresh alpine air. Our campsite provides a serene backdrop with stunning vistas that change with every season, offering a unique and beautiful experience year-round. **Outdoor Activities Galore:** Situated just a short drive from Lake Tahoe, you can spend your days swimming, kayaking, or simply lounging by the crystal-clear waters. For those who crave a bit more excitement, Mt. Rose is right at your doorstep, offering excellent opportunities for hiking, climbing, and exploring the rugged terrain. **Mountain Biking Trails:** Take advantage of our complimentary short-term bike rentals and explore the exhilarating mountain biking trails nearby. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned pro, you'll find trails that cater to all skill levels, ensuring a thrilling ride through the wilderness. **Modern Amenities:** Stay connected with complimentary Wi-Fi available for all campers. After a day of adventure, share your photos and experiences with friends and family or simply unwind with your favorite streaming service. **Nearby Attractions:** - **Mt. Rose Summit Trail:** A challenging but rewarding hike to the summit for breathtaking views. - **Tahoe Rim Trail:** Perfect for both hiking and biking, offering miles of scenic trails. -** Sky tavern bike park right next door with so amazing repeatable trails - **Diamond Peak Ski Resort:** Just a short drive away for winter sports enthusiasts. Join us in tahoe for an unforgettable camping experience filled with adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty. Book your spot today and start planning your mountain getaway!

100%

(1)

Kyburz Mountain Oasis

4 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents1 acre · Kyburz, CA

For Lodgers: A beautiful 3 bedroom apartment river front view with a large deck Fire pit Bathrooms Kitchen Wifi Backup generators For Campers A private campsite. Jeep Trailer Top Tepui Tent (available upon simple request) Large enough to park a car and back in a 23 foot trailer. 3 picnic sites Propane bbq built in. 3 hammocks built in. For campers, porta potty built in. Lock access required. Private flowing Stream on site. Dogs welcome with permission. No other animals allowed (sorry) Outdoor fire pit. Close to river, hiking galore, rock climbing and more. Coffee shop on weekends within walking distance. It’s truly a gem.

Coldstream Ice Haus

1 site · Lodging20 acres · Truckee, CA

Located on 20 acres in Tahoe Wilderness, this is a cool off the grid, solar-powered, rustic cabin situated next to a stream. Sleeps 6-8 people. There is running hot and cold water, shower and a plumbed toilet. Kitchen with refrigerator, propane powered stove/oven, toaster, coffee maker. One bedroom on first floor. Dining/hang out area with firebox and cubbies for hanging/drying outdoor clothing. Upstairs loft has 5 single beds divided by 'pony' walls with shelving and 1 full bed. For winter use, there is a generator when needed. Heat from firebox will keep entire cabin warm. For winter, access provided by snowcat; guided trips only.

Cabin On Lake Tahoe

1 site · Lodging3 acres · Tahoe Vista, CA

2 separate 1 bedroom cabins (sleeps up to 8 people) ON THE LAKE at the Tahoe Sands Resort for NYE!! Open from Dec 30 to Jan 5th -- prices vary from $100/night to $400/night Tahoe Sands Resort boasts an unusual Tahoe history. The cottages, built in the 1930s and 40s were once military training barracks, while the lodge was built in the 1960s to accommodate Winter Olympians. Now a comfy basecamp for your Sierra adventures, Tahoe Sands Resort offers an array of suites, 1- and 2- bedroom stand-alone cottages. We are a beachfront property so our units feature some of the best views in Tahoe Vista along with fully stocked kitchens or kitchenettes! The stand-alone cabin was recently updated and is a one bedroom (queen) with a fold out couch in the living room. It has a kitchenette with everything you need to prepare your meals there (all you need is the food). The resort is on the Lake and features a hot tub and sauna for cold snowy nights, as well as a friendly lodge atmosphere. This is a great opportunity to get away with your family or friends.

100%

(16)

Tedastevastan

2 sites · Tents5 acres · Reno, NV

Our land is 5 wooded acres in pinon / juniper forest. Features include: many walking paths all around the land, lookout point with picnic table for sunset viewing, spectacular starry skies, night time enchanted forest, and an outdoor shower. Historic Virginia City is a 7 mile drive. Downtown Reno is 24 miles away.

Star Hosts in Carson City

100%

(16)

Tedastevastan

2 sites · Tents5 acres · Reno, NV

Our land is 5 wooded acres in pinon / juniper forest. Features include: many walking paths all around the land, lookout point with picnic table for sunset viewing, spectacular starry skies, night time enchanted forest, and an outdoor shower. Historic Virginia City is a 7 mile drive. Downtown Reno is 24 miles away.

L.Davis Ranch and Olde LYFE Alpacas

4 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents130 acres · Carson City, NV

Too cold to camp??? NOT HERE!! We have propane heater avail to rent!! OR spend the night in our new Glamping Tent where you'll be toasty warm!! We sit on 130 acres of primarily pasture over looking Washoe Valley and Washoe Lake. Olde LYFE Alpacas offers visits with the animals, including an organized 60 min Peaceful Walk with an alpaca where you’ll experience them up close. To book an experience, go to www.oldelyfealpacas.com. There is a small retail store on site with a variety of products made with alpaca fiber, including the most delightful alpaca socks!! The ranch store is self serve mostly. There are price sheets and payment methods listed!

Flyte and Sparrow natural interlude

13 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents96 acres · Reno, CA

When you come to camp here you are on a working farm in transition. Girlfarm has been a local food go to for restaurants, farm family members, and regenerative agriculture interests. Today, the farm is looking forward to a new course in agri tourism as we begin planning walking gardens, art installations in the landscape, and interactive classes. If you would like a list of grass fed meats available, veggies, or herbs just text your host before arrival. We are looking for a seasonal self contained camper who we could offer trade for camp care - text host directly. Its been a huge water season so skeeters are around we also recommend tents have a rain fly and ground cloth. Welcome It was important to choose a partner like Hipcamp to invite like minded individuals who respect both the natural environment and the idea of less is more. At any time you may encounter farming activities, building out of tiny houses for future bookings, or gardens in the process of creation. As we move toward offering the land as a place to both find solitude or chosen participation our Flyte and Sparrow experience will hopefully be a place you will want to return to as your own tradition.

Dog-friendly getaways

Booked 1 time

Beautiful Rustic Cabin In Nature

1 site · Lodging2 acres · Pollock Pines, CA

Beautiful Rustic Cabin that is surrounded by Nature and Tall Majestic Trees. This Cabin home has all the privacy you need. Lots of space to park your RV or set up a Tent. Easy access to the freeway so you can be on your way to the famous Apple Hill (15 minute drive), South Lake Tahoe (1 hour drive), Sly Park (less than 10 minute drive), or El Dorado National Forest. I recommend grabbing some delicious food in Downtown Placerville. This is the place you want to be at when looking for Rest and Relaxation!

L.Davis Ranch and Olde LYFE Alpacas

4 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents130 acres · Carson City, NV

Too cold to camp??? NOT HERE!! We have propane heater avail to rent!! OR spend the night in our new Glamping Tent where you'll be toasty warm!! We sit on 130 acres of primarily pasture over looking Washoe Valley and Washoe Lake. Olde LYFE Alpacas offers visits with the animals, including an organized 60 min Peaceful Walk with an alpaca where you’ll experience them up close. To book an experience, go to www.oldelyfealpacas.com. There is a small retail store on site with a variety of products made with alpaca fiber, including the most delightful alpaca socks!! The ranch store is self serve mostly. There are price sheets and payment methods listed!

Water front on Topaz Lake

7 sites · RVs, Tents4 acres · Topaz, CA

Learn more about this land:Beautiful lake front property on Topaz Lake , we have 6 rv sites to choose from on 4 acres .First come first serve . Bring your Rv or pitch a tent . Bring your whole family. We have kayaks and paddle boards . Fishing boat available to rent . Life jackets available and a peddle boat too ! Lots of float toys !!

Village Camp Truckee

134 sites · Lodging, RVs50 acres · Truckee, CA

Village Camp Truckee is nestled in the breathtaking Sierra Nevada mountains of Northern California, offering easy access to the best outdoor activities, shopping, and dining Truckee, CA, has to offer. Situated at nearly 6,000 ft., Village Camp Truckee is open year-round, making it the perfect basecamp for winter sports enthusiasts headed to Northstar or Palisades Tahoe, and for those looking to enjoy mild summer days fishing or exploring the Truckee River. Just a short drive from the stunning beauty of Lake Tahoe, Village Camp Truckee also features modern cabins and RV sites surrounded by majestic redwoods, thoughtfully designed with your comfort in mind.

Big Yeti Tiny Village

8 sites · RVs, Tents1 acre · Washington, CA

As you know Hipcamp lets you book and enjoy your travel plans seamlessly, So....We make every effort to be open year round, even in a blizzard. Please make sure you are equipped completely for your perfect stay over. This is a Mountain Location please check local weather conditions before you arrive. This is located 25 minutes from Truckee. Emigrant Gap has some hidden GEMS. The State park at the end of the road hosts the North Fork of the North Fork of the American River and its water Fall. Bowman Lake and Yuba Gap reservoir are one exit away. This small camping area backs up to 100,000 acres of Tahoe National forest. You can walk to a restaurant with regular bathrooms and wifi. Here we have out door compost toilet and cold out door shower. ATM we are nothing special. Lots of cool things to do minutes from here, but we mainly boast a safe place to park on your journey. Historic and epic rock climbing is minutes from your campsite. Also there are 4 ski destinations less then 20 minutes from us. fishing lakes can be hiked to. Quads, snow mobiles, xcountry skiing, hiking, downhill and horse back riding can all happen without getting back on the freeway. September 1, 2023. In and effort to make stayovers more comfortable, Site 4 and 5 are being removed and site 6 is being modified to host a full time 34Ft RV available for nightly use.

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

93%

(110)

Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit

South Lake Tahoe, California

100%

(50)

D.L. Bliss State Park

Tahoma, California

100%

(14)

Emerald Bay State Park

South Lake Tahoe, California

93%

(252)

Tahoe National Forest

Graniteville, California

97%

(16)

Donner Memorial State Park

Truckee, California

100%

(13)

Grover Hot Springs State Park

Markleeville, California

92%

(135)

Eldorado National Forest

Kirkwood, California

91%

(64)

Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest

Mono City, California

Fort Churchill State Historic Park

Silver Springs, Nevada

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Camping near Carson City guide

Overview

The capital city of Nevada, Carson City offers plenty of history and culture, a charming downtown, and is a good base for exploring nearby attractions like Reno, Virginia City, and Lake Tahoe. Situated in Eagle Valley at the foot of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Carson City is also a year-round gateway to outdoor adventures spanning hiking, mountain biking, railbiking, off-roading, fishing, golf, and winter sports like skiing and snowboarding. Several RV parks in town offer full hookups and amenities, while plenty of scenic campgrounds can be found nearby, particularly for those who enjoy camping in the high desert, near a lake, or in the forest.

Where to go

Carson City and Vicinity

Just north of Carson City in Washoe Valley, Washoe Lake State Park offers outdoor activities like water sports, hiking, biking, and horseback riding, along with wildlife that can include a herd of wild horses. Year-round camping options can be found around the lake at Washoe Lake Campground and at Davis Creek Campground. Or head west from Carson City and find three primitive campgrounds and two backcountry cabins in the Spooner Backcountry at Spooner Summit.

Lake Tahoe

Under 20 miles west of Carson City, Lake Tahoe is the country’s largest alpine lake, complete with 72 miles of shoreline and plenty of beaches, trails, and charming towns along its shore. Camping options are plentiful, and include lakeside campgrounds like Nevada Beach and Zephyr Cove on the Nevada side and both private and public RV and tent camping options on the California side, including in South Lake Tahoe.

Highway 50

Highway 50 may be the Loneliest Road in America but there are plenty of attractions east of Carson City worth exploring, including mining history and wildlife at Dayton State Park and frontier history at Fort Churchill State Park, along with year-round campgrounds at both parks. Further east, Lahontan State Recreation Area offers fishing, boating, water skiing, wildlife viewing, and both a developed campground and primitive beach and high desert camping.

Humboldt-Toiyabe and Eldorado National Forests

The Carson Ranger District of the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest stretches north and south of Carson City and offers seven developed campgrounds and three wilderness areas for backcountry camping. Further southwest, the Eldorado National Forest offers additional developed and dispersed camping options, and rugged terrain for outdoor recreation.

When to go

Summer is the busiest time to visit Carson City, with many visitors also visiting nearby Lake Tahoe. Summer temperatures can soar, making water activities particularly pleasant. Numerous events and festivals are also held over the summer. Spring offers good weather for outdoor activities. Visit in October for fall colors and the Nevada Day Celebration and over the winter to hit the ski slopes around Tahoe.